In today’s rental market, being a pet-friendly apartment community is more important than ever. With an estimated 70% of U.S. households owning at least one pet, and 72% of renters reporting that pet policies influence their decision to lease, offering pet-friendly amenities is crucial for attracting and retaining tenants. Pet owners often face challenges finding suitable housing, with nearly 50% of renters stating they have struggled to find pet-friendly apartments. Communities that embrace pet ownership not only open their doors to a broader tenant base, but also foster a sense of inclusivity and community. By offering pet-friendly amenities, apartment communities can stand out from the competition and appeal to this growing demographic of renters who consider their pets as family.
To create a welcoming and inclusive living environment, offering thoughtful and unique pet-friendly amenities is key to attracting and retaining residents who view their pets as family. Our top suggestions for pet amenities focus on enhancing convenience, safety, and enjoyment for both pets and their owners. From dedicated dog parks and washing stations to pet-friendly events and walking trails, these features not only cater to the needs of pet owners but also help build a sense of community. By implementing these pet-friendly amenities, apartment communities can provide an exceptional living experience that meets the growing demand for pet-inclusive spaces, ultimately increasing resident satisfaction and loyalty.
Here’s a list of pet-friendly amenities that an apartment community can offer:
Dog Park – A designated fenced area for dogs to run, play, and socialize off-leash. If possible, offering separate dog parks for small and large breeds is optimal, as it ensures a safer and more enjoyable experience for pets of all sizes.
Pet Washing Station – A self-service area with washbasins, grooming tools, and dryers for residents to clean their pets.
Pet Waste Stations – Conveniently placed bins and bags around the property for easy waste disposal.
Pet-Friendly Walking Trails – Safe, scenic paths for residents to walk their pets within the community.
Pet-Sitting/Walking Services – On-site or partnered service providers for pet care during resident work hours or travel.
Pet Welcome Package – A move-in gift set for pets that includes toys, treats, and information about local pet services.
Pet Breed and Size Flexibility – Policies that allow a wide variety of breeds and larger dogs.
Pet Play Area or Agility Course – Spaces equipped with obstacles and play structures for active pets.
Pet-Friendly Events – Community events such as "yappy hours," pet costume contests, or training workshops.
Indoor Pet Lounges – Climate-controlled areas where pets and owners can relax and socialize.
Pet-Friendly Apartment Features – Hardwood floors, stain-resistant carpeting, and other materials that are durable and easy to clean.
Emergency Vet Access or Partnership – A relationship with nearby emergency vet services or discounted rates for residents.
Pet-Safe Landscaping – Use of non-toxic plants and pet-safe chemicals for lawn care.
Doggy Daycare Partnerships – Agreements with local dog daycare services offering special rates for residents.
Pet Door Installation Options – Apartments with the option to install pet doors for convenience.
Pet Concierge Services – Help with arranging pet grooming, vet visits, and other pet care needs.
Pet-Friendly Pool Hours – Designated times when pets are allowed to swim in the community pool.
Pet-Friendly Balconies or Patios – Outdoor areas designed to be safe for pets to roam or relax.
On-Site Pet Store or Delivery Services – Access to pet food, toys, and other supplies through on-site vendors or partnered delivery services.
Pet-Focused Technology – Smart home features like pet cameras or automatic feeders in select units.
Pet Adoption Events – Partner with local shelters to host adoption events for residents who want to bring home a new pet.
Pet Behavior Training Classes – On-site or partnered training sessions for pet obedience and behavior improvement.
Pet-Friendly Cafés or Lounges – Spaces where residents can enjoy a coffee or snack with their pets.
Pet Cooling Zones – Outdoor misting stations or shaded areas to help pets cool off during hot weather.
Pet Photography Services – Occasional photography events to capture professional portraits of residents and their pets.
Pet Emergency Kit in Apartments – Providing residents with a pet emergency kit including first aid supplies and information.
Pet-Friendly Furniture or Rentals – Offering furniture rentals that are scratch-resistant and pet-durable.
Dog-Friendly Water Fountains – Pet-level water fountains placed along walking paths or in dog parks.
Pet-Safe Window Screens – Reinforced screens that ensure pets stay safe while enjoying fresh air.
Pet Name Tags or Microchipping Services – Partner with local vets or services to provide discounted or free name tags and microchipping.
Seasonal Pet-Themed Decorations – Decorate the community for holidays with pet-friendly themes (e.g., Halloween costumes for pets).
Pet Relaxation Stations – Designated quiet areas with calming scents and sounds for anxious pets.
Mobile Vet Services – Bring in mobile vets or groomers to offer services on-site for convenience.
Pet-Themed Murals or Art Installations – Design the community with pet-centric art or murals to make it a visually welcoming environment.
Pet Donation Drives – Organize events where residents can donate supplies to local animal shelters.
Pet Co-Living Spaces – Apartments that are specifically designed for pet owners, with built-in features like pet doors and feeding stations.
Pet-Friendly Rooftop Lounge – A rooftop area that allows pets to enjoy the view with their owners.
Pet-Safe Transportation Options – Shuttles or community vehicles that accommodate pets for trips to the vet or dog park.
Pet-Only Elevators or Areas – Dedicated elevators or sections of the community to ease navigation with pets, especially during peak hours.
Pet Health and Nutrition Seminars – Educational events on pet wellness, nutrition, and preventive care for residents.
It's never too late to add pet-friendly amenities, and doing so can be an exciting way to engage current residents while attracting potential ones. Adding these amenities not only enhances the living experience but also shows a commitment to inclusivity and community. The 40 amenities listed above can easily be tweaked with holiday or seasonal flair—such as festive pet costume contests, seasonal pet treats, or themed pet play areas—to keep things fresh and exciting throughout the year. By being thoughtful and creative, you can make a big impact, even on a limited budget, ensuring your community stands out as a welcoming home for pets and their owners alike.
DOMUS Marketing is happy to create custom pet-friendly marketing materials, both digital and print, to help you promote these new amenities. Please reach out via phone/text (828-628-6330) or Email to brainstorm ideas and receive estimates for your project!
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Thanks so much for creatingHOME!
Renee
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